Art Inspiration

Looking for ways to make art and creativity more a part of your daily schedule at home or in the classroom? Check out this book called The Art Box by Gail Gibbons. It is a nonfiction book that explains common art materials, colors and more.

My daughters love to do art at home, at the local children’s museum and at play group. This book has inspired us to think about what other materials and projects we can do together!

Best Ages: pre-k – 1st grade

For Parents:

Put together an art box, if you don’t already have one at home. We’ve used old shoeboxes as ours, but you could buy fun and more fancy baskets or containers! To get more bang for your buck, check out your local dollar store or print coupons to use at national craft chain stores such as Jo Ann Fabrics or Hobby Lobby.

Talk about the art materials you are using as you and your child sit down to do some art together.

For inspiration, take a look at my favorite art blog hosted by an elementary school art teacher. Search by age, media or theme!

For Teachers:

Invite your art teacher into your classroom. Read the book aloud to your students together, then allow them to rotate through stations that explore different art materials as described in the book.

Ask students to share their experiences working with different types of media. Take a vote on which station was their favorite.

Use one of these free graphic organizers to integrate art with one of your core content areas. For younger students, complete a a class.

Choose one idea from this art teacher for reinforcing the color wheel as introduced in the book and try it out with your class!